Annaly Bay Beach and Tide Pools are located on the North Shore, over the hill from Carambola Beach Resort. Access to these enchanting tide pools is somewhat difficult. You either have to hike here, or take a vehicle that has 4-wheel drive down to the beach and hike from there. However, the road is difficult to navigate so make sure you know what you’re doing, or hire an off roading tour company that does, if you choose to drive there. The hike is somewhat difficult, so make sure to keep that in mind. We promise, once you get here all your effort will be worth it. Breathtaking is an understatement. You will be fully surrounded by nature and all its beauty at these gorgeous tidal pools.
DETAILS
The 5 mile round trip hike is through the rainforest, so it is mostly in shade, but the trail is steep at parts. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing plenty of drinking water and maybe a snack. There are no facilities so you are on your own. Keeping that in mind, and the fact that this location is so remote, take extra care to ensure you and others don’t hurt yourselves (it’s a long way back to civilization). Also, there is not much shade once you get to the beach, so make sure you pack lots of water and sunscreen for this venture. The beach at the end of the hike is comprised of smooth rocks and pebbles instead of sand – not great for swimming – and the surf can be quite rough.
The real draw of taking the time to get to Annaly Bay are the tidal pools. At the far west end of the beach you will need to climb over the rocks to get to the tidal pools. The pools are a beautiful spot to rest and take a dip to cool off. There are more pools than just the first large one – you can continue climbing to the west to find more. Use your best judgement – if the waves are too rough, don’t risk the climb. ALERT: Please consider going with a trained guide as the terrain can be quite precarious. Also, be sure to check the wind and sea conditions before taking on this adventure.
DIRECTIONS
To find the trail head, drive along the north shore all the way west until you find Renaissance Carambola Beach Resort. Park your car in the upper lot, outside of the guard gate. The trail head is at the edge of the bush, marked Trumble Trail with a sign. Ask at the guard gate if you’re not sure.
AMENITIES
None. Be sure to bring lots of drinking water, sunscreen/sun protection and a snack. We also recommend wearing sturdy, waterproof shoes for the hike and for climbing over the rocks to the tide pools.
RESTRICTIONS
Parking at the Carambola Beach Resort is reserved for guests of the resort, but there is an area for parking just outside the resort property for access to the trail head to the tide pools.
